Scotland 2–1 Belarus: Adams and McTominay Strike as Clarke’s Men Edge Closer to World Cup Play-Off Spot

A night of tension, relief, and ultimate triumph unfolded at Hampden Park as Scotland edged out Belarus 2–1 in a crucial World Cup qualifying encounter. Goals from Che Adams and Scott McTominay proved decisive, as Steve Clarke’s men took another step toward securing at least a play-off place for next summer’s World Cup Finals.

This was Clarke’s 72nd match in charge of the national side — a record for a Scotland manager — and it may well have been one of his most emotionally charged nights at the helm. Against a Belarus team ranked 100th in the world, expectations were high, but the evening offered anything but comfort as the Tartan Army were made to endure nine agonising minutes of stoppage time before the full-time whistle finally blew.

Adams Breaks the Deadlock

Scotland started brightly, showing attacking intent from the outset. The breakthrough came in the 15th minute through Che Adams, who continued his impressive run of form in national colours. Defender Jack Hendry threaded a clever ball through the Belarusian back line, finding Adams just inside the penalty box. The striker took a neat touch, turned his marker, and rifled a low left-footed strike into the bottom corner beyond the despairing dive of the goalkeeper.

Initially, the linesman’s flag went up for offside, briefly silencing the Hampden celebrations, but VAR came to Scotland’s rescue. After a short delay, the goal was rightly awarded, sparking a wave of noise and relief among the home supporters.

VAR Drama and Disallowed Goals

The match, however, would not flow as freely as Scotland had hoped. Belarus, though underdogs, showed moments of quality and nearly pulled level just after the hour mark. A well-worked move resulted in the ball in the back of the net, but Romanian referee Marian Barbu was called to the pitchside monitor. After a VAR check, the goal was disallowed for a foul on McTominay in the buildup — a let-off for the hosts.

Just minutes later, Adams had the ball in the net once again, latching onto a loose ball and finishing coolly. But this time, there was no reprieve from the officials — the striker was ruled offside, and the goal was chalked off without need for VAR intervention.

Clarke Shuffles the Pack

As the clock ticked on and tension built in the stands, Steve Clarke made changes to reinforce his side. Kieran Tierney replaced Anthony Ralston in the 72nd minute, while John Souttar came on for Hendry, both subs signalling Clarke’s intention to tighten things up at the back.

Despite Scotland dominating possession, the second goal remained elusive — until the 84th minute.

McTominay Strikes Late

With nerves fraying and the Belarus defence beginning to tire, it was Scott McTominay who rose to the occasion. Captain Andy Robertson delivered a pinpoint cross from the left flank, and McTominay ghosted into the area to steer the ball home. The Manchester United midfielder’s goal sent Hampden into raptures and appeared to seal the game — or so it seemed.

Late Belarus Goal Sparks Tension

Deep into stoppage time, with Scotland seemingly cruising to a 2–0 victory, Belarus stunned the crowd. Substitute Gleb Kuchko fired a low shot past Angus Gunn after a moment of slack defending, making it 2–1 in the sixth minute of added time.

Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted. From confident cheers to anxious gasps, the Hampden crowd held its breath as Belarus threw everything forward in a desperate search for an equaliser. Gunn was called into action once more before the final whistle — and when referee Barbu finally signalled the end after nine nerve-wracking minutes of injury time, the sense of relief was palpable.

Eyes on the World Cup

The result keeps Scotland firmly in the hunt for qualification. While far from a perfect performance, the determination, tactical discipline, and timely goals from Adams and McTominay ensured three vital points. With only a few matches remaining in the group, Steve Clarke’s side now has control of its own destiny as the dream of returning to the World Cup stage edges closer.

For Clarke, this match further cements his legacy as one of Scotland’s most enduring managers. For the players, it was another example of resilience under pressure. And for the fans — it was a night they won’t forget anytime soon.